the Freddie top

Test sewing a new pattern from Summer Haus

me in my Freddie Top next to our thriving hops.

This past week, I finished my test sew of Summer Haus’ newest pattern, the Freddie Top/Dress. Test sewing is usually the last phase before a pattern is released. The test sewers are volunteers who sew up the pattern; helping to clarify or catch typos in the instructions & illustrations and testing the fit of the finished garment. It’s a fun way to support pattern designers and you usually get a final copy of the pattern for free when its released.

I was excited to test this pattern because I pretty much live in tank tops in the summer and the oversized collar with ruffles is unlike anything else in my closet. I picked a lightweight, 100% cotton gingham to sew my top in. I used buttons that had been gifted to me by a family friend. The buttons and pouch are old—I imagine they’re from an artist who was born in the 1920s, mostly because that’s what I vaguely recall the family friend sharing when she gifted the button bag to me.

assorted buttons and handmade drawstring pouch

ABOUT THE PROJECT

Pattern: the Freddie Top/Dress by Summer Haus

Size: 6, View D

Fabric: lightweight 100% cotton in tan & black gingham

Modifications: none

I’ve sewn the Spero Skirt by Summer Haus and loved it! It’s a simple pattern and comes together quickly—I made a navy sweatshirt version and a pink velvet version. The Nico Sweatshirt is another popular pattern on sewing Instagram that I’ve had my eye on, but I have a lot of LB Pullovers and haven’t quiet needed another sweatshirt pattern. Anyhow, this pattern is no different—Kristine provides lots of detailed instructions and really helpful illustrations making the pattern easily accessible to new and experienced sewists alike.

I was reminded that finishing armscyes and necklines with bias is…a bit of a labor of love as it takes several more steps to sew and complete than a rolled or folded hem. But, a great pattern if it’s your first time making and finishing with bias.

When I make another one, I’ll try out the non-collared version of the top or maybe the dress. I might size up if more ease isn’t added to Size 6, as I tend to be broader in the shoulders than most (a lifetime of swimming and now rock climbing). I also, personally, really dislike bust darts. I find them impossible to make symmetrically (mine are always off), they’re fiddly without much reward, as honestly, I don’t need them if there is enough ease otherwise. So, I might remove the bust darts and extend the armscye. But, overall the fit without modifications is totally wearable as is.

I love that the collar emphasizes the subtly v-neckline and I always love a button-up tank. I’m glad to have a go-to pattern in my files when the mood strikes to sew up another one. I think the dress version in a tomato red raw silk noil styled with brown cowboy boots or maybe a navy version styled with a blazer could both be potential next sews.

I’m excited to see what all the other test sewers made, as well as everyone else once the pattern is released!